Cooker
F01
The F01 error code on a Leisure cooker indicates a fault with the oven’s temperature sensor (NTC probe) — one of the most common faults reported across Leisure’s range of freestanding and range cookers. It can feel alarming when your cooker suddenly stops working and flashes a code, but in many cases this is a fault you can diagnose at home, and in some instances fix without spending a fortune. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what the F01 code means, what’s likely causing it, what you can safely try yourself, and when it’s time to call in a professional.
What does this error mean?
The F01 code on a Leisure cooker is the appliance’s way of telling you that it has detected a problem with the oven temperature sensor — also known as the NTC thermistor or oven probe. This sensor is a small component, usually located inside the oven cavity, that continuously monitors the internal temperature and sends that data back to the control board. When the control board receives a reading that is outside the expected range — either because the sensor has failed, has a broken wire, or has developed a poor connection — it triggers the F01 fault code and shuts down the oven as a safety measure. In short: your cooker’s brain can’t get an accurate temperature reading, so it refuses to operate. The hob (if gas or separate electric) may still work, but the oven will typically be non-functional until the fault is resolved.
Est. repair cost
£15–£40 for a DIY NTC sensor replacement; £80–£150 for a professional sensor repair; £180–£280+ if the control board (PCB) needs replacing
🔍 Likely causes
🛠️ Step-by-step fix
Step 1 – Power cycle the cooker: Switch the cooker off at the wall socket (or turn it off at the fuse spur or circuit breaker if it is hardwired), wait a full 5 minutes, then restore power. This clears any temporary software glitch. If the F01 code does not return, monitor the cooker through a few cooking cycles before assuming it is fully resolved.
Step 2 – Check your user manual: Locate your Leisure cooker’s model number (usually on a sticker inside the oven door frame or on the back of the appliance) and check the manual or Leisure’s website to confirm that F01 specifically relates to the temperature sensor on your model. Leisure produces a wide range of cookers (including the CLA, GRB, and RVL ranges), and while F01 is consistently the NTC sensor fault across the range, it’s worth confirming for your specific model.
Step 3 – Inspect the oven temperature sensor visually: Open the oven door and look for a small probe or rod — usually about 3–5cm long — mounted to the back wall or side wall of the oven interior, held in place with one or two screws. Visually inspect it for obvious signs of damage such as burning, cracking, or a broken tip. Do not attempt this while the oven is hot or powered on.
Step 4 – Check for obstructions around the sensor: Ensure no baking trays, foil, or oven liners are in contact with or pressed against the sensor probe. Physical contact can damage the probe and cause false readings. Reposition any shelves or accessories that may be touching it.
Step 5 – Test the sensor resistance with a multimeter (DIY-safe electrical test): If you are comfortable using a multimeter, you can test the NTC sensor’s resistance. First, switch the cooker off and unplug it from the mains. Locate the sensor probe and unplug its connector (usually a two-pin connector accessible from inside the oven or by gently pulling the oven away from the wall to access the back panel). Set your multimeter to resistance (Ohms). At room temperature (around 20°C), a healthy Leisure NTC sensor should read approximately 10,000 Ohms (10kΩ). A reading of zero (short circuit) or infinity (open circuit) confirms the sensor has failed and needs replacing. You will need: a multimeter (available from £10–£25 at Screwfix, B&Q, or Amazon).
Step 6 – Inspect the sensor wiring and connectors: With the cooker still unplugged, trace the sensor wiring from the probe back towards the control board (you may need to carefully pull the cooker forward to access the back panel). Look for any visibly burnt, pinched, or frayed wiring, and check that all connectors are firmly seated. Reseat any loose connectors by pushing them firmly together. Do not attempt to open the main control board housing.
Step 7 – Replace the NTC temperature sensor if it has failed: If your multimeter test confirms a failed sensor, replacing it is a manageable DIY job for a competent homeowner. Order the correct replacement NTC sensor for your specific Leisure model — part numbers vary, so search using your full model number on sites such as 4ourhouse.co.uk, espares.co.uk, or repairclinic.com. The sensor is typically held in by one or two small screws (a Pozidriv screwdriver is usually needed) and connects via a simple push-fit connector. Fit the new sensor, reconnect the wiring, restore power, and check whether the F01 code has cleared. Replacement sensors cost approximately £15–£40 depending on the model.
Step 8 – Reset the cooker after the repair: After fitting the new sensor or reseating connectors, power the cooker back on and run the oven at a moderate temperature (e.g. 180°C) for 20–30 minutes to confirm the F01 code has cleared and the oven is heating correctly. If the error returns, the fault is likely with the control board rather than the sensor.
Step 9 – If the error persists after sensor replacement, stop and call a professional: A recurring F01 after a confirmed sensor replacement points towards a faulty PCB (main control board) or a wiring harness fault deeper within the appliance. Diagnosing and replacing a PCB requires professional knowledge and tools — do not attempt to open or repair the control board yourself.
📞 When to call a professional
You should call a qualified appliance repair engineer if: (1) the F01 error returns immediately or shortly after a power reset; (2) you are not comfortable using a multimeter or handling basic electrical components; (3) you have replaced the NTC sensor and the error code persists; (4) you can see burnt or visibly damaged wiring inside the appliance; or (5) the cooker is making unusual sounds, smelling of burning plastic, or tripping your home’s circuit breaker. When you call, tell the engineer: ‘My Leisure cooker is showing an F01 error code, which I understand relates to the oven temperature sensor. I have already tried a power reset [and replaced the sensor, if applicable] but the fault has returned.’ This gives them a head start and avoids you being charged for basic diagnostic time. Use a Which? Trusted Trader or Checkatrade-listed appliance engineer, or contact Leisure’s own service team directly via their website. If your Leisure cooker has a gas hob, always ensure the engineer is Gas Safe registered.
⚖️ Repair or replace?
For a Leisure cooker showing an F01 fault, the repair-vs-replace decision largely comes down to the age of the appliance and the cost of the underlying fault. If the fix is simply a new NTC temperature sensor (the most common cause), this is excellent value at £15–£40 for the part, and well worth doing on any cooker regardless of age. If the fault turns out to be a failed PCB (control board), costs rise significantly — a replacement PCB for a Leisure range cooker typically costs £80–£180 for the part alone, plus £60–£100 labour, putting the total at £140–£280. At that price point, the age of your cooker matters: if it is under 5 years old, repair is almost always the right call. Between 5–8 years, weigh the repair cost against a mid-range replacement (Leisure freestanding cookers start from around £400–£600 new). If your cooker is over 8–10 years old and the repair bill exceeds £200, replacing it is likely better value — particularly as newer models are significantly more energy-efficient. Parts availability for Leisure (owned by Glen Dimplex) is generally good for current and recent models, but can become patchy for models over 10 years old, so factor this in when deciding.